Review of Letters to Juliet (2010) by Sophie W — 25 Apr 2018
*Some Spoilers Ahead*: Letters to Juliet was released in 2010 and directed by the late Gary Winick. It's filming style (panoramic views, gentle warm colors, and lighting) soundtrack (whimsical and adventurous) and setting (much was filmed in Verona and Tuscany) all contribute to its having that golden summery haze feeling, a movie that makes you believe that maybe everything happens for a reason.
That it is perhaps never too late to create your own happy ending. It offers a modern spin on the conflicts of love that have spanned generations. With its elements of letter writing, journey, and summer romance, it can be compared to films such as PS I Love You, The Last Song, or Mamma Mia.
What makes the movie so fulfilling for audiences is the duality of love stories: we watch Sophie grow more distant from her fiancée as she takes charge of her time in Italy through initiating the trip to help Claire find her Lorenzo.
Claire's story is central, yet at the edges, we see the sparks fly between Sophie and Claire's grandson, Charlie. Additionally, the film's reference to the actual advice column, where people can write to "Juliet", in Verona is a pleasing nod to the beauty of exchanging handwritten correspondence.
The humor mixed in with the drama is done well, such as when we see all the different Lorenzo's interact with Claire-some with kooky, eccentric personalities and others who are suave yet still not her actual lover.
Perhaps one challenge encountered by the crew is how to create a convincing bond between Claire and Lorenzo and choosing to have Vanessa Redgrave's husband play the role was a decision well-made. For fans of romcoms, one can't help but smile as Taylor Swift's Love Story plays and the camera shows atmospheric shots of Italy as the car filled with Sophie and Charlie's bickering and Claire's wisdom speeds along.
Is the film too predictable? Maybe for some. But if you aren't a cynic, have never seen the trailer that gives everything away on YouTube, and decide to witness it authentically for the first time, I think there's a chance that it would surprise you with its humor and ultimate resolution.
It is a film that warms the heart.
This review of Letters to Juliet (2010) was written by Sophie W on 25 Apr 2018.
Letters to Juliet has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
